Berlin – Migration remains a defining issue of our time, from the welcoming policies of 2015 to the current challenges. Over a year ago, Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) promised a stricter approach to migration policy. A recent report by Paul Ronzheimer for “Wie geht’s Deutschland” examines the consequences, focusing on the stories of individuals and families impacted by these policies.
Ronzheimer’s reporting features individuals who had integrated into German society but now face deportation. The case of Ayse (19) and her family illustrates this situation. They arrived in Germany illegally from Turkey in 2020, hidden in a truck.
Family was integrated
Ayse’s father sought a better future and education for his children. The family quickly integrated into German society, with the parents working and paying taxes in Stadtallendorf, Hessen, and the children attending school. Despite this, authorities recently arrived at their home.
“A month ago, ten police officers were at our door at 5 a.m., packed my father’s and my siblings’ belongings into garbage bags, and took them to the airport,” Ayse reported. The family’s asylum request had been denied five years prior, and their temporary permission to remain expired three months ago, despite repeated attempts to renew it.
Parents and Child Separated
As Ayse is currently completing an apprenticeship as a nurse, she is allowed to remain in Germany for the time being, leaving her alone. “It’s a disaster, I’m traumatized,” she told Ronzheimer. When she spoke to her father in Turkey, he expressed his distress, saying, “It’s terrible that my daughter is alone now. We don’t know what to do.” Ayse knows she will only be able to see her family via video call for the foreseeable future.
“Migration has failed from our side”
Paul Ronzheimer concluded, “I feel deeply for Ayse and her longing for her family. These scenes are repeated across Germany, raising the question of why some are not deported while families are separated by police action. Migration has failed – but likely due to shortcomings on our side.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the police visit to Ayse’s family?
The police arrived to deport Ayse’s father and siblings, as their asylum request had been previously denied and their temporary permission to remain had expired.
Where is Ayse’s family now?
Ayse’s father and siblings were deported to Turkey.
What is Ayse doing currently?
Ayse is currently completing an apprenticeship to grow a nurse, which allows her to remain in Germany for the time being.
As migration policies continue to evolve, what role will individual stories like Ayse’s play in shaping public discourse and future decisions?
